Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site

Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church was built between 1698 - 1700 and is the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The Swedes preceded the English to this part of America, arriving here in 1646. For nearly two centuries, this church was a mission of the Church of Sweden. As Swedes were absorbed into the general American population, Gloria Dei became English speaking and was admitted into the Episcopal church in 1845. The Church is owned and maintained by its congregation and contains important historic relics and artifacts.


Revolutionary War patriots John Hansen, president of the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation, John Morton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and five of General Washington's officers rest in the churchyard burial ground.

Columbus Boulevard and Christian Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215)389-1513 - Visitor Information

By Plane
Philadelphia International Airport, eight miles from Center City, is served by all major domestic carriers as well as a gateway for flights from Europe, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The SEPTA Airport Line connects the airport with Center City.

By Car
From northbound I-95 Exit at the Columbus Boulevard/Washington Avenue exit (#16). Turn left onto Christopher Columbus Boulevard. At the second traffic light, Christian Street, turn left. Church parking lot is on the left.

From south bound I-95 Exit at the Penn's Landing (exit 16, left hand off ramp). Turn right onto Christopher Columbus Boulevard. At the first light (Christian Street) turn right. Church parking lot is one the left.

By Plane
By Train: Philadelphia is served by Amtrak which operates rail service along the Northeast Corridor (Boston to Washington, Atlantic City, NJ to Harrisburg, PA). Inter city service is provided to many points south and west.

By Bus: Inter city bus service is excellent, with daily arrivals from all parts of the country. The Greyhound Terminal is located at 10th & Filbert Streets, within walking distance of the park.

Average minimum temperature from December through February is less than 30(c3)(b8)F. Average maximum temperature from June through August is more than 80(c3)(b8)F with high humidity

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

Recommended Activities
The church exhibits items from the early log church including a Baptismal Font, the golden sprays on the lectern and pulpit, and the Cherubim below the organ. Buried in the cemetery are numerous members of George Washington's army as well as the famous naturalist Alexander Wilson (the "Father of American Ornithology").